MINISTER for agriculture, fisheries and forestry Murray Watt said Australia and India had agreed on two-way agricultural trade that will provide new market access for Australian Hass avocados to India and access for Indian okra to Australia.
“This is a significant market access opportunity for Australian avocado producers, with the opening of a new export market which industry estimates has a potential market value of approximately $25 million,” Mr Watt said.
“India’s large population and diversifying economy is creating new demand for premium and healthy produce which Australia is well placed to deliver on.”
Mr Watt said the agreement would contribute to further export diversification opportunities for the Australian avocado industry.
“Australia and India share a strong agricultural trading relationship focused on collaborative effort and co-operation, which was evident by the development and agreement of trade approaches for our respective priority market access requests,” he said.
Minister Watt said the Okra from India: biosecurity import requirements final report highlighted the significance of the bilateral relationship between the two countries and commitment to deliver new safe trade opportunities under the Australia–India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement.
“India is an important trading partner for Australia. In 2021, India was Australia’s sixth largest two-way goods and services trading partner at $34.3 billion,” Mr Watt said.
“I’m pleased Australians will now be able to enjoy Indian okra which is known for its nutritional benefits and versatility in cooking.”
Successful completion of 10 trial Hass avocado shipments to India will be required before the trade protocol with India is finalised for broader trade.
